Knowsley’s new Health Check campaign was launched by the Cabinet Member for Health this week.
Eligible residents aged 40 to 74 years old are being encouraged to take up the offer of a free NHS health check. It can help to spot potential health problems such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, kidney disease and dementia.
As part of the campaign Knowsley’s fleet of refuse collection vehicles has been fitted with the health checks distinctive blue branding to drive awareness of the free check as they travel around the borough. The branding informs residents to contact their GP surgery to make an appointment.
Cllr Chris Bannon, Knowsley Council’s Cabinet Member for Health said:
“These health checks really are an effective way of spotting issues or risks early, while encouraging those identified as being at a higher-risk to take preventive action. The health check gives people the opportunity to reduce the risk of serious illness in the longer term.
“Residents aged between 40 to 74 who do not have any pre-existing conditions such as heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, high cholesterol or an irregular heartbeat, are eligible and it’s a really simple and proactive thing we can all do to protect our health.
“I would urge anyone who is eligible to contact their GP to arrange theirs – the average health check only takes 20 to 30 minutes but it’s a simple step that could save your life!”
What happens at the check?
The NHS health check is offered to eligible people aged 40 to 74 years old and it will take around 20 to 30 minutes.
The health professional – often a nurse or healthcare assistant – will ask you some questions about your lifestyle and family history, measure your height and weight, and take your blood pressure and do a blood test. The blood test will be done either before or at the check with a blood sample taken from your arm.
You will be given your cardiovascular risk of getting heart disease, stroke, kidney disease and diabetes within the next 10 years.
You will then receive personalised advice to reduce your risk. This could include talking about how to improve your diet, getting more active, taking medicines to lower your blood pressure or cholesterol or how to lose weight or stop smoking. You may also be referred to the Healthy Knowsley Service who can offer you support to make any changes.
If you’re over 65, you will also be told the signs and symptoms of dementia to look out for.
Pictured L-R: Thomas McGivern, Recycling Manager; Cllr Bannon; Luke Denson, Recycling Manager.